Ruckman Aaron Sandilands has committed to a 17th season of AFL football after signing a one-year contract extension with Fremantle for 2019.

Sandilands said his motivation to sign came from his love for the club and his hunger to keep playing and desire to support Fremantle’s young list.

The 35-year-old has played 11 games this season and has missed most of the second half of the year due to a calf injury and concussion.

“Fortunately, I’m allowed to go around again for another 12 months,” Sandilands said.

“I had a good chat with the club and a good think about things and I’m going to have another year at Fremantle, which I’m really excited about.

“Obviously, the motivation is still there. I’ve had a bit of time to talk about it with the family and I know the love for the game and the footy club is also still there.

“I think it does definitely make the decision a lot easier.”

Sandilands is one of three senior players to re-sign since last Monday to help support and strengthen Fremantle’s younger players, joining David Mundy and Hayden Ballantyne in signing one-year contract extensions. 

Fremantle has also secured its future with the re-signing in the past week of up-and-coming players Bailey Banfield, Taylin Duman and Hugh Dixon as well as 25-year-old Harley Bennell. 

“I think having such a big turnover with 22 new faces in two years, the experienced guys like David and Hayden, you really need those guys around to guys and teach,” Sandilands said.

“The young guys pick up a fair amount, just from the way the senior players going about things so you need that balance of youth and experience.”

Sandilands paid tribute to young ruckmen Sean Darcy and Scott Jones, who have stepped up in his absence. 

“It’s great to see the young guys come in and fill the role,” Sandilands said.

“Scott and Sean are both developing really well, as you can see in how they’re playing at the moment. 

“We’ve also got ‘Meeky’ (Lloyd Meek) and Luke Strnadica coming through as well so things are looking really good.” 

Fremantle CEO Steve Rosich said Sandilands' contribution to the club went beyond his on-field achievements. 

“Aaron has been such a vital player for Fremantle for a long period and we’re thrilled to see him sign on for another year,” Rosich said.

“He’s an outstanding leader and is held in such high regard by all of our young ruckmen, who are developing quickly under his wing. 

“Along with David and Hayden, we see Aaron playing an important role in sharing their knowledge and setting an example for a young playing list while contributing to the growth of our young players, including emerging ruckman Sean Darcy.”